Anatomical differences between men and women lead to differing types and frequencies of urinary bladder disorders. The proximity of the bladder to the female reproductive organs and the effects of pregnancy, childbirth and menopause on the urinary tract contribute to the common prevalence of specific bladder disorders among women. Bladder infection, cystocele and urinary incontinence are among the most frequent bladder disorders that affect women.
Bladder Infection
Bladder infection, or cystitis, commonly affects women. The urethra--the tube through which urine passes--sits in close proximity to the vaginal opening and the anus. Bacterial contamination of the urethra serves as the primary source of infection. The American Academy of Family Physicians notes that women are more prone to bladder infections than are men because of the shorter length of the female urethra. Sexual intercourse may contribute to bladder infections by pushing urethral contaminants toward the bladder. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases reports that 20 percent of women develop at least one urinary tract infection over their lifetime.
Cystocele
The urinary bladder sits directly in front of the upper anterior wall of the vagina, held in place by pelvic muscles and ligaments. Weakness of these structures due to childbirth, menopause or excessive straining can lead to bladder encroachment into the vagina, a condition known as cystocele or fallen bladder. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases explains that grade 1 cystocele involves mild bladder encroachment into the vagina. This condition typically causes no symptoms. With grade 2 cystocele, the fallen bladder extends to vaginal entrance. Bladder protrusion through the vaginal opening constitutes grade 3 cystocele. Grades 2 and 3 cystoceles typically cause discomfort and incomplete bladder emptying. A diaphragm-like device called a pessary can help hold the bladder in place and relieve symptoms of moderate cystocele. Grade 3 cystocele often requires corrective surgery.
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence--the involuntary passage of urine--affects millions of women. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases reports that nearly 40 percent of women age 60 and older experience some degree of urinary incontinence. Pelvic muscle weakness proves the most common cause of female urinary incontinence. Urine leakage typically occurs when the pressure inside the abdomen and pelvis increases, such as with coughing, sneezing, laughing or straining. Exercises to increase pelvic muscle strength can help alleviate this form of urinary incontinence. Overactive bladder, characterized by frequent muscle spasms of the bladder, also causes urinary incontinence. A 2009 report issued by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality indicates that 10 to 15 percent of adult women in the United States experience symptoms of overactive bladder, many of whom have frequent episodes of urinary incontinence.
References
- FamilyDoctor.org: Urinary Tract Infections in Women
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Urinary Tract Infections in Adults
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Cystocele (Fallen Bladder)
- American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Pelvic Support Problems
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Kidney and Urologic Diseases Statistics for the United States--Urologic Problems
